Shii issues statement protesting N. Korea’s ‘rocket’-launch

April 14, 2012

Japanese Communist Party Chair Shii Kazuo on April 13 published a statement in protest against a “rocket”-launch by North Korea as follows:

“The DPRK launched a ‘rocket’ on April 13. The launch, though it failed, is in violation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1874 (passed on June 12, 2009), which demanded that DPRK not engage in any launch using ballistic missile technology.

The JCP strongly protests the DPRK’s action, urging the DPRK to refrain from any actions that would cause a further deterioration of the situation. The DPRK is required to return to the Six-Party Talks joint statement issued September 2005, and to act responsibly as a member of the international community.”

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On the previous day in the Diet, asked by the press about future responses Japan should take, Shii said, “It is important for the international community to act in concert and continue to seek a non-military, diplomatic solution to the issue.”

Shii stressed that internationally-coordinated efforts will discourage North Korea from attempting to further intensify regional tensions.

He added, “The world’s governments should adhere to a non-military approach and make diplomatic efforts to deal with the issue.”